Jose Mari L. Yupangco of Yamaha at Asia Leaders Forum Davao

Following the launch of the first Asia Leaders forum held on January 31, 2017 at Misono Japanese Restaurant, this coming March 30, 2017 from 10am to 4pm another Asia Leaders Forum in Real Estate will be launched, this time in Davao and with the collaboration of the following influencers:

• Yupangco Electronics Corporation (Distributor of Yamaha Sound and Audio Technology) headed by Jose Mari Laurel Yupangco, the grandson of our former President of the Philippines (Jose P. Laurel) and 
• TAG Media and Public Relations headed by Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas (Entrepreneur, Broadcaster, Writer, Public Speaker).

The launch of the first Asia Leaders Forum was graced with esteemed speakers that include Dr. Elton Tan of E-Hotels, Robert Laurel Yupangco of Zoomanity Group, Engr. Ben Co of BSC Construction, Mario Berta of Flyspaces, Congressman Prospero "Butch" Pichay of Surigao Del Sur, Koo Kwan Kon of Global Morning City Development, Tanya Llana of Victoria Court, and LiZan Kuzter of Impact Hub Manila among others.

The event was also attended by representatives from SMDC, ProFriends, DMCI, DibZ and Megaworld.

These subject matter experts are trail blazers in their fields. Participation at Asia Leaders Forum will give a competitive edge needed to beat the myriad of other real estate participants chasing deals. All eyes are on the Philippines as it hosts the ASEAN 50th Anniversary. The Asia Leaders Forum is a great avenue for the country to showcase its skills, products, as well as promote its world class infrastructures and talents.

The objective of the forum is to promote the Philippines as the premier business hub in Asia and update the participants on the current state of the real estate industry in the Philippines. Furthermore, it aims to inform the audience of key government mandates and initiatives to improve the real estate sector in the country as well as share the preparations being done for ASEAN 50.

For more information, please contact grace@tagmedia.asia or call (+63)916-629-9381.

Kick-start your Freelancing Career: Learn how to become a VApreneur

If you're always wondering about how online freelancing works, here's the right venue to learn about it!

This October 22, 2016, join us in a day of learning and discovery by attending #VApreneur: One Day To FREEdom! Workshop. This event aims to help aspiring and existing virtual assistants to develop their business, identify their core skills, meet more clients, and charge competitively for their services.

What is a virtual assistant and what does it have to do with freelancing? 

A virtual assistant or a VA is a person who provides services to a client remotely from home, may it be technical, creative, or administrative, it depends on what skills the VA has to offer. That said, VAs are freelancers too, offering services online and remotely to clients that are mostly overseas.

VA vs. VApreneur: the difference

The term VApreneur is a play between VA and entrepreneur, and was coined by Ms. Rochefel Rivera, one of the organizers and speakers of the event.

As a VA, you work as an independent contractor, providing services to your client, and is being paid a fixed rate or an hourly rate, depends on what is agreed upon. A VApreneur is more than that, your mindset is not just confined to a remote employee but a business owner, a service provider offering intangible products of high value to the clients. This shift from employee to entrepreneur mentality is what sets them apart, and is going to be tackled further during the event.

A lot of freelancers pride themselves as being their own bosses, but behind their desks they're slaves to their clients, overworked and underpaid. It's time to put more value to your work and package your services in a competitive manner, making your client see you as a partner and not just a cheaper alternative to a regular employee.

#VApreneur: One Day To FREEdom! Workshop

In this workshop, you will learn:

1. How to transition from employee to VApreneur
2. How to capitalize on your passion and existing skills while using the business model suited for your lifestyle
3. Possible opportunities behind online entrepreneurship
4. How to find clients that pay and appreciate the value of your work
5. How to take advantage of technology and build your dream business from home

When: October 22, 2016 9:00AM
Where: Bluefin Grill, GF, Metrowalk Commercial Complex, Ugong, Pasig City
Ticket prices (snacks and lunch included): 

• Early bird rate until October 8: ₱888
• Regular rate: ₱1,498
• BFF rate: Learn with your BFF and get the 2nd ticket 50% off - ₱1,332
• Gang rate: Gather a group of 4 and your pass is FREE - ₱2,664

For more information and ticket payments, head over to:
www.professionalvas-academy.com/vapreneur-road-tour-project/

:D

Taiwan Excellence Experiencing Zone at SM MOA on July 8 to 10

Do you want to experience some of the most exciting and innovative products from Taiwan?

Source: www.twexcellenceusa.wordpress.com

Come visit the Taiwan Excellence Experiencing Zone at SM City Mall of Asia Atrium on July 8 to 10, 2016. Organized by the Bureau of Foreign Trade (BOFT) under MOEA of Taiwan government, the Taiwan Excellence Experiencing Zone will showcase Taiwan’s most dynamic brands, which bears the Taiwan Excellence seal that confirms their high quality and product superiority. Covering the ICT, Home and Living, and Sports and Leisure industries, mall goers will get the opportunity to discover Taiwan's best brands and purchase from a wide selection featuring more than 200 products from 54 brands like Acer, ASUS, D-Link, Sakura and Transcend.
For this mall event, variety of Taiwan’s sports and fitness equipment will also be showcased including KYMCO’s motorcycles that redefine transportation means; Pacific’s bikes that continuously provides inventive ways to make biking more exciting; and Johnson’s fitness products that can be your partner in maintaining your personal health.

For added excitement, there will be a dance group performance by Coven PH and a fashion show to keep you entertained while going through the assorted items on display. Watch Daryl Ong, Morissette Amon, and KZ Tandingan as they render a show-stopping performance. Model actor Mikael Daez and cosplayer sisters Ashley and Alodia Gosiengfiao will also be present to greet exhibit guests.

Join the booth navigation tours and brand presentations, and see how the featured products can complement your lifestyle. Brands such as Asus, Heartway, and MSI will offer their products at a discounted rate. There will also be games and lucky draws, wherein prizes will be raffled off to lucky guests.

Save the date and discover the possibilities that Taiwan brands can bring to your life!

###

About Taiwan Excellence
The symbol of Taiwan Excellence honors Taiwan’s most innovative products that provide tremendous value to users worldwide. All products carrying this symbol have been selected for specific Taiwan Excellence Awards based on their excellence in design, quality, marketing, Taiwanese R&D and manufacturing. Initiated by the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), R.O.C. in 1992, the symbol of Taiwan Excellence is recognized by 100 countries.


Organized by Bureau of Foreign Trade (BOFT), MOEA
The Bureau of Foreign Trade (BOFT) under the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), R.O.C. is responsible for implementing policies and regulations governing foreign trade and economic cooperation. Established in January 1969, the BOFT's role and position have been adjusted regularly to meet the needs of the ever changing international economic and trade environments. The BOFT has been guiding and working with the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) in numerous promotional trade projects and activities both internationally and domestically. Having worked closely with TAITRA for many decades, the BOFT continues to commission TAITRA for various critical government projects relating to business, trade and investment, while promoting Taiwan internationally.


Implemented by Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA)
Founded in 1970 to help promote foreign trade, the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) is the foremost non-profit, semi-governmental trade promotion organization in Taiwan. Jointly sponsored by the government, industry associations, and several commercial organizations, TAITRA assists Taiwanese businesses and manufacturers with reinforcing their international competitiveness and in coping with the challenges they face in foreign markets. TAITRA boasts a well-coordinated trade promotion and information network of over 1,200 international marketing specialists stationed throughout its Taipei headquarters and 50 overseas offices worldwide. Together with its sister organizations, the Taiwan Trade Center (TTC) and the Taipei World Trade Center (TWTC), TAITRA has created a wealth of trade opportunities through effective promotion strategies.

5 reasons you should come to Nuffnang's Blogopolis 4D

In which I invite you to attend a blog and social media conference happening this Saturday! Why?

1. It's their cheapest Blogopolis yet!

Regular ticket price: ₱499 ONLY
Discounted rate: ₱349 (for students and senior citizens)

For the past installments they're usually around ₱1,000 so that's a huge mark down!

You don't really need to pay though. If you're masipag or just want to score free tickets, just look up "Blogopolis 4D ticket giveaway" on Google and join any of the (still open) contests, put in some effort and hope to win haha. The sponsors, speakers, even Nuffnang itself and its talent bloggers usually give out tickets to their readers. ;)

But really, 499 is already very cheap for an afternoon of learning (and celebrity spotting, susme).

2. Stellar hosts

Sam YG, Sam Oh, and IC Mendoza

The names are getting bigger and bigger, and should I say more and more? I'm betting on 4 hosts next year haha.

3. Esteemed speakers

Notable names are Vernon Sarne of Top Gear Philippines, Congresswoman Leni Robredo, Jonathan Yabut from The Apprentice, and Internet Superstar Ramon Bautista!

WHERE ARE YOUR TICKETS?!

4. Networking

If you're a blogger this is definitely a chance to meet-up with your blogger friends and extend your cards to sponsor exhibitors. Otherwise, you're still gonna meet new friends and learn a lot! Sosyalan ito guys, be ready with your OOTDs (char).

5. Freebies

I've never went home empty handed from any Nuffnang event (naks) so I'm sure you will too. HAHA Pero wag mag-demand ha. Poised tayo, poised.

That said, I hope I got you excited! I'm miles away so I won't be there but I'm sure it's gonna be fun and full of learning.

Teka, what's 4D ba?

Ewan ko rin LOL. You'll know when you get there! ;)

Blogopolis 4D
February 27, 2016 (Sunday)
Axon Hall, Green Sun, Makati City
www.blogopolis.ph

See you on Satchmi's Birthday Bash!

“IT’S OUR BIRTHDAY!” Satchmi Store Turns 1

It's been a year since the Satchmi Store opened its doors and they’re celebrating it the best way they know how: the ultimate birthday party happening! I’m so excited for September 26, but while we wait, here are a couple of things we hear you can expect at Satchmi’s Birthday Bash:

Free flowing drinks
The Satchmi Store as most people know, is not just your ordinary record store. They also have a coffee bar situated right in the middle. Their third wave coffee has been praised and raved on by many, getting their beans straight from the local supplier - EDSA Beverage Design Group. This time though, not only will we get free flowing coffee for the night, but free flowing craft beer from their friends over at CraftPoint Brewery! Coffee + Beer = the perfect way to cap off the night

Party giveaways and prizes
For those who attend the party, they get a chance to win Satchmi’s Motorino Mk II - Customized Limited Edition. A staple in almost all of Satchmi’s events. Not only that, they’ve also added in more giveaways from their favourite curated local brands like Sunday Paper Co, The Lost Nomad, Gouache Bags, Leather Fellow, The Green House Project, and more!

Record sales
We also hear that there might be a sale on their records (plus a special announcement about the Motorino Mk II we are absolutely dying to know!)

Lots of music and laughs
The Satchmi Store has been known for hosting intimate and fun events for music and the performing arts. You can expect some of their staples on stage: Reese & Vica, BP Valenzuela, CRWN, and up and coming artist Coeli (all we can say is you have to see her to experience her music). Adding to the birthday fun, Satchmi will also be getting Comedy Cartel’s Chip Balbuena - JackTV’s Kamikaze Best Comedy Act Competition winner & Laugh and Stack Standup Comedy Competition Champion to end the night right.

Secrets and plans revealed
We also hear that there’s going to be a special part of the program where Satchmi will be disclosing to everyone there what their plans are for next year. It’s kind of ironic how this time the birthday celebrant will be doing the surprising and we just gotta know what it is! They’ve been dropping a few hints here and there but I guess we’ll have to wait for the actual event to find out what Satchmi is planning for 2016.

Until then, we are inviting everyone to go to one of the most exciting birthday parties this year. Advanced Happy Birthday to the Satchmi Store and see you on September 26, 7PM!

---

To RSVP go to tinyurl.com/happybirthdaySatchmi
The Satchmi Store is located at the 4F, Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall
For more details contact Satchmi at experience@satchmi.com or call them at 401 6905
Visit their website at www.satchmi.com

Yellow Cab's Man vs. Pizza Challenge: a different kind of date

Last Friday (August 21) I accompanied Jeckie to a pizza eating contest hosted by Yellow Cab at SM City San Lazaro. He was one of those selected to participate after filling out an online form at facebook. We were both excited for it because heyyyy you don't always get free 18" pizza just by joining, and if he actually wins that's FREE MONTHLY SUPPLY OF PIZZA FOR 6 MONTHS okay?! Ohaaaaa!

When we came to the event we weren't expecting to see a stage set up specifically for it at the mall activity center. I thought they were just gonna have them eat inside the restaurant or something haha. Syaliiiiin!

When the event started (around 15 minutes late), we were disappointed to hear that we have to wait 20 minutes pa for they're starting with the female division first. When they called the girls up, they were lacking 2 participants so they opened the stage to anyone (or two) who wants to join from the audience. My boyfriend pushed me to join, I was reluctant shempre, but it didn't take long for me to decide. I have nothing to lose, in fact it's a win-win thing. What's devouring a New Yorker pizza on stage in front of an audience in exchange for that box and a possibility of winning?! I totally overcame stage fright! LOL

Para sa ekonomiya ng Pilipinas!

So I shot a hand up and made my way to the stage. Oraaaayt. This is eat! All I have to do is enjoy the box! Who cares if I just came from a buffet breakfast?! Free pizza is free. :D

Female division - 20 mins. time limit. That's me on the MAN ;)

Male division - 15 mins. time limit! Jeckie taking my spot para sweet daw sabi nung host LOL

In the end, we both lost with a few bites, but that's totally okay. I finished 4.something slices within the 20 minutes time limit and Jeckie ate 5.something slices in 15 minutes.

We took home a lot of pizza, umbrellas, super cute Yellow Cab notebooks with stickers and coupons inside, and painful jaws! Oh yeah! Super worth it!

Watch out for the next Man vs. Pizza Challenge! I heard they're opening another contest this September at Paseo Center, Makati City! I hope there'll be one at UP TechnoHub too! Woooh! :D

Aaaaand since it turned out to be quite a date, here's a pic of us! <3 Naisip ko nga, why don't we join eating contests often?! It's cheap and we get to eat a lot. haha

2nd placers waddup!

Before I end, let me share a few tips I gathered on the spot while munching on the ginormous slices. I mean, just in case you want to join. These are just based on my experience okay, may or may not work for you. haha

1. Start with the smallest slices first. My strategy was to fold two slices together like a sandwich and eat. They count by most slices eaten anyway so you want to leave the big slices behind haha. I only started this on my 3rd and 4th slices because I wasn't thinking haha
2. Use small amounts of water to soften the mass of food in your mouth so you can swallow easier. You can also use water to push the food. Up to you!
3. Bite big, chew less, and try to swallow it whole. LOL. Do this if you're super competitive and is really after the time. Don't do this if you want to enjoy your food haha. I didn't do this cos I only thought about it after the contest. I noticed some of the boys doing this but even if I thought about it sooner, I wouldn't dare, ma-choke pa ko haha. 
4. ENJOY THE FOOD. Of course! In times like this where there's nothing at stake, there's no stopping you from having fun while being in the spirit of competition! :D

BONUS: Ridiculous tips cos there are no rules against them anyway haha

1. Bring a blender with you, blend the hell out of that box, and drink to your mouth's protest
2. Pretend to eat the pizza but really do a magic trick to make it disappear
3. Sabotage your opponents by secretly putting your slices in their box while they're busy 

Lol hope this helps :P

Congratulations to the winners and of course, to Yellow Cab!

How to Retire Before the Age of 50

Are you constantly worried about the state of your finances? Buried in debts and liabilities? Your bills eating up your vacation fund? Do you have trouble saving money? Do you want to be able to live an abundant life before you hit 50?

If you said yes on any of the questions above, see you soon and let's get our lives sorted out!

Level up your personal finance by attending this wealth management conference led by Chinkee Tan, wealth and life coach, and renowned motivational speaker on June 20, 2015, 1pm-6pm at The Metro Tent, Metro Walk, Pasig City. 

How to Retire Before the Age of 50

Whether you're a student, an employee, a sales agent, a business owner, a direct seller, or a housewife... this event is for you! Well, it's for everyone who is determined to take a step up in charge of their finances. Isn't that soooo us?

In this 5 hour event, we will be learning life changing lessons that will drastically alter our mindset about money. We will learn how to CREATE, HANDLE, GROW, and PROTECT our wealth in order to emerge financially free and debt free!

Are you excited?

I freaking am! Which is why I'm inviting all of you to grab your tickets now because it's only a matter of time before the tent gets filled!

Take advantage of these early-bird rates

Register now and get Php 1,000 off the regular rates!

 GOLD: Php 1,800 NOW Php 800 

Sit this close to the stage and never doze off as you get called for recitation haha

SILVER: Php 1,600 NOW Php 600

If you're okay with a miniature version of Chinkee Tan, plus a complementary sea of heads, go ahead! XD

BRONZE: Php 1,400 NOW Php 400

Reallyyyy, unless the nearer slots are sold out... you're not paying for an audiobook you know. XD

Go for the GOLD guys, you won't regret it!

What more, add Php 1,000 and spend an exclusive dinner with Mr. Chinkee Tan where you can get more of his insights about financial planning, plus a photo-op and book signing opportunity!

Just fill out the form at end of this post to reserve your slots!

as a sign of thanks...

I want you to know that i'm giving away something awesome to everyone who reserves a ticket from this blog.

Since we're talking about growing your wealth and overcoming your finances, i'm giving you a chance to start your own e-loading business for free as i give you a FREE LoadCentral Retailer Account! :)

I usually charge 200 pesos for those who want to register as my retailers, but you're in luck because i'm waiving all that so you can start your own business with minimum capital! :D

With this account, you can start your own loading business! this 1-sim-loads-all account delivers e-load to ALL networks. you can also sell gaming credits w/ these (MOL, Garena, LevelUp, etc.), and much more. For a complete list of products you can sell and earn from, check out this link.

So what are you waiting for? Sign up now for this KaChink Event, learn from the expert, and have fun with your new business!

Here's the form, just fill it out and indicate the type of product you're availing (in this case, KaChink Event).

If you want to receive the give-away being offered on this blog, just fill up this form to reserve (DO THIS FIRST). You will receive an opt-in confirmation email to ensure you are not being added without your consent. Once you confirm, you will get an email that has the links to purchase Chinkee Tan's books, money kit and training programs.

Name

Email

Contact number

Mailing address

Products
Books
Do it Yourself Money Kit
KaChink! Event

[Disclosure: I am an accredited online lead generator for Chinkee Tan's Books and Training Programs]

Eat Out Manila Bloggers Meet + Say it with Dinner Valentine's Promo!

Last week (Jan 29), Eat Out Manila hosted a bloggers meet at Chihuahua Mexican Grill & Margarita Bar (BGC), where we learned first hand info about the said app, live and straight from the founder itself, Mr. Inaki Lamata.

i wasn't entirely new to the app, as i was first introduced to it during Blogapalooza 2014, but back then i never really took too much notice haha.

simply put, Eat Out Manila is an online restaurant reservation app! it's available on iOS and now Android, and also has a web app. very accessible!

as per any reservation system, it effectively eliminates waiting time and allows you to confirm or cancel your appointments instantly. you'll never have to experience the frustrating process of reserving via phone call, because for all you know, the person on the other line might misspell your name, be rude, or worse - forget to block your reservation at all!

Eat Out Manila is designed to give us the most convenient way to reserve tables AT NO COST.

What more...

- you may search hundreds of restos by name, cuisine, location, or even proximity!
- you get access to menus and chef's recommendations
- you're eligible to join EoM's partner restaurant promos!
- [COMING SOON] they're cooking a partnership with Uber that will give diners a more delightful experience!

The Meet

w/ Ross and Alex

it was my first time to attend a blogger event alone so i was afraid i wouldn't uhm behave blogger-like. lol ano raw. friendly, ganon! i was excited to make friends though but really i was afraid to be surrounded by people who are already familiar with each other and thus have no room for a new friend! chooos. anyway. i joined tables with bloggers Ross (of Wazzup Pilipinas) and Alex (of The Technoclast) and was delighted naman cos yeyy new friends!

haha part of the program was to create a short skit illustrating a scenario where the Eat Out Manila app can be used. we were grouped by tables, and well, WE WON! wow. took home a powerbank each yeheyyy! srsly i was so happy cos i've always wanted a powerbank hihi

The Food

oh, Chihuahua's margaritas are awesome! srslyyyy! i love mexican food so i enjoyed everything they served, from the tacos, burritos, and quesadillas! <3 they have a salsa bar if you're craving for more sauce... and oh, look at that wall of sauce! amazeballs! >8D

the walls of the place are plastered with photos of the many moments the restaurant has captured! it's a freakin lot it even reached the bathroom! hahaha

every thursday night they hold a salsa party (uhh, no you don't get to throw sauce on each other's clothes) at the BGC branch, where a dance instructor teaches salsa and diners dance aaaaaaaaall night long! it's a pretty unique gig for a mexican bar you know! it's really a great place to chill out! kwentuhan lang over margaritas and nachos is enough!

The Promo

orayt, back to Eat out Manila. In time for the upcoming Valentines season, they're holding a promo called Say it with Dinner where the winning couples will get a dinner treat from EoM! sounds cool right? on to the mechanics...

Contest Period: February 4 - 12, 2015

Eligibility: Open to social media users (yeah facebook, yeah instagram) who want to win a romantic dinner with a loved one!

How to enter:
- Like Eat out Manila on Facebook
- or follow @eatoutmanilaPH on Instagram
- Post a Valentine's video message addressed to your partner and post it your social media account, either facebook or instagram (make sure it's set to public!)
- Include the following hashtags: #sayitwithdinner and #eatoutmanila
- One entry per person only. Instagram videos shared on Facebook is considered one entry, and both of their likes will be totaled by the end of the contest. oha. so cross-post that thing for more chances of winning!

Selection of winners: most number of likes wins!

Notification: you will know if you win! haha. weeeeell, you will be reached via IG or FB :D

Prize: 3 winners will receive a dinner for two each at a restaurant to be determined by Eat Out Manila.

Exciting, yeah? Go on and cook that winning video! Share it to me so i can like it as well!

You're Invited! The Storytelling Project BOOK LAUNCH!

Finally! The Storytelling Project will be launching "Super Labandera" and "Si Uligmaya at ang Dambuhalang Buwaya"

Imagine. Create. Share

The First-ever TSP Book Launch

Featuring stories written by Jim Mark of Dagupan and Aprille Joy of the Mountain Province

It will be on December 14, 2014 (Sunday)
4:30pm at Fully Booked Bonifacio High Street (BGC, Taguig)

Admission is free!

here's the official facebook event page :D

see you all there!

to give you a short background, these books were written by children who were part of TSP's Storywriting Workshops. If you don't know TSP yet, they're a team of passionate people who travel to remote communities in the country to teach children reading, storytelling, and writing; following a comprehensive 3-phase program, Imagine-Create-Share which is best explained here at their FB page's About section (expand on the long description please!) hehe

i'm so excited because i'll be signing for Super Labandera as the illustrator! moreso, it's going to be my first time to see the book for real because i wasn't able to participate during the proofing process. haaay busy kasi haha.

this is such a freaking dream come true not just for me, but for the many kids in far flung places who will be inspired to dream BIG! imagine, Jim Mark and Aprille were just ordinary children who wanted to learn story writing, AND NOW THEY HAVE A BOOK! amazing grabe!

i hope you all go and support the cause! the books will be sold at 150 pesos each, and next year it will be out on Fully Booked bookstores!

Run BGC Urban Adventure 2014

Pinoy Fitness opened a sign up form last week that will allow us to join Run BGC Urban Adventure for FREE if we were among the first 500 to sign up. so right there and then, i filled out the form, submitted it, and invited jeckie, and also some of my college friends to join! it was exciting! FREE SHIRT EH ANO BA. lol. chos

joma, jec, and i :)

anyway, in the end i came with jeckie and joma (his officemate), and together we went to BGC on Saturday (November 29) to collect our kits. chos.

the mechanics says to form a group of 10 people max. we were only 3 but we didn't care cos we thought we could handle all the puzzles and activities naman. sos. haha

but then, while claiming our shirts. they wouldn't let us form a group of just 3. aw. so we had to team up with other people looking to complete their groups. that's where i met kuya Jesus, who was looking for 3 more to complete his team. Amen!

with our team mates!

when all 10 of us huddled up, i was looking at my team and thought, hindi naman kami competitive so it's okay that our group is composed of a bunch of middle aged men who looked like they were only in it for the run. they looked like they could run. and we 3 looked like we could solve puzzles. and that's about what we need in a team right? haha honestly, i was a bit disappointed and thought for a while if we actually have a chance of winning with this team. ang sama ko. sorry po.

QC MARSians spotted!

before the race started, i spotted some QC Marsians and asked them how come they're all here! apparently, the event was also offered for free for MARS (Milo Apex Running School) students and i didn't know because i was absent when it was announced. part of me died and wished i was in their team instead. ang sama sama ko talaga.

but then, SURPRISE SURPRISE! when i got the chance to chat with kuya Jesus, i learned that he and all his companions were BGC GUARDS!!!! OMG! HAHAHAHA i felt like we hit the jackpot! Amen! i just had to highlight that cos i was so shocked and happy! hahaha

i mentally confessed at my prior thoughts. we finally have a chance at winning. HAHAHA #chos

How the game works

Each team will be given a small envelope with puzzle cards that they have to solve. each puzzle will reveal a location in BGC that they have to seek out. on each location, they have to perform a challenge. and on every challenge they complete, they will be awarded stars (3,2,1 stars in order of performance) that will be stamped (well, stickered) on their score cards.

teams will have to perform as much challenges as they can, and earn as much stars as they could. after 3 hours, they must surrender their scorecards back to the commencement area for evaluation.

the winning team will get 50,000 pesos! i don't remember what the other prizes were hahaha!

The first puzzle card we solved led us to 9th Avenue at Bonifacio High Street. i don't know where the hell that was but i thank God our team is composed BGC Guards lang naman *ehem* *ehem* who knew every nook and cranny in BGC. we just had to tell them and they will lead us to the place!

WE WERE NEVER LOST!!!

it fascinates me to no end how they knew every single place in BGC. as in! as we were solving puzzles, we would consult them again and again if any of the words we're forming is making any sense.

"kuya, ano yung market? market market ba yun?"
"ah hindi ibang market yan. dun yun!"

"kuya, ano yung may kalikasan something?"
"kasalikasan yan, dun yan!"

"turf? turfgc?"
"Turf BGC po, dun!"

etc. etc. etc.

HOW COULD IT GET ANY MORE CONVENIENT THAT THAT?! hahaha

we didn't win but we enjoyed a lot! the first activity we did, the one with the BINGO cards was exhausting and at the same time super enjoy! we were tasked to take group pictures with all the items listed in the BINGO card. i could imagine doing this with my college barkada! sobrang saya sana! haha

Pic spam!

drones watching over us

that's a drone up there surveilling the place for cheaters. lol. we were actually called out for opening the envelopes before the announcement to begin took off, but that's because we thought it was already announced. we were just so atat. sorry. the event staff was kind naman not to disqualify us so thank you!

Robot pose at Burgos Circle

Thumbs up with a store employee

With a pet dog or pet cat

Finally

When the game ended we were so exhausted. my knees were so tired, and my tummy was voilently growling for food already. what with all the running, going back and forth to places, and literally dancing in the rain? haha we decided to eat at Murray and D'Vine -- burgers, ribs, and damn good wine! haha

Here's a shot of my food. Heart shaped buns kamown!

According to one staff, some valentines ago they made their buns and patties heart shaped, and the customers liked it and requested not to change it. and that's what they did. i wonder what they would do if we suggested we liked round buns better, or star shaped ones. lol

my Juicy Lucy. 425 pesos. ouch

deeeeym that thick beef patty stuffed with caramelized onions and cheddar cheese. reminds me of Stuff Over at Maginhawa, only waaaaay more affordable. didn't quite enjoy this honestly. Big B parin the best!

going home was terrible cos no taxi would accommodate us. i always understand naman cos makati to fairview is a pain in the gas. i had to add an extra fee para lang makasakay. buti na lang hindi traffic sa EDSA! yeyy!!

cheers to a happy day! >XD

[Call for Sponsors] The Storytelling Project BOOK LAUNCH!

this month has been one of my busiest ever, the project we're working on at the office is under debug fixing so our hours have been very much in demand lately, including the weekends (which i sooo hate haha). then last month i got a wake up call from kuya rey and ate grace about my pending commitment to Super Labandera, they're targeting to launch the book this december so i was alarmed that i got less than a month left to finish the project. looking back, i wasn't so diligent with my tasks. the last time we talked about the project was March pa and i kindof forgot about it over the months even though i promised myself to work on it every weekend. sad.

anyway, guess what! i just finished the book! well not reallyyyyy since i still have a couple of pages to fill, but the entire story pages are now complete, CAN I CRY?! i'm just soooo happy that it turned out cute! and i'm also so thrilled that kuya rey and ate grace liked how it came out!

now i know how frkn hard it is to become an illustrator. emegeeeesh i can finally call myself an illustrator!!! best title evaaarrr! <3

now what? we have the soft copy but that's ours to keep, sorry. WHAT WE WANT YOU TO HAVE is the hard copy of course, tangible spreads of colors and stories bursting with values and culture and loooove. don't we all love that?

TSP is looking to launch two books by December, Uligmaya (retold by Aprille Joy of Mt. Province) and Super Labandera (by Jim Mark of Dagupan). They are products of our Litle Helpers from the story writing workshops with Ate Grace!

So, when there's a book launch, there has to be books, right??? That's where we need you guys!

TSP is looking for sponsors who can help make this event a reality! See poster for more details!

3 important things I learned at DPOP Professional Blogging Summit 2014

i was really fortunate to have scored an invite to the recently concluded Professional Blogging Summit organized by Janette Toral and Jeoff Solas. It happened last October 18, 2014 at A.Venue Mall, Makati and was co-presented by A.Venue Mall, Salad Box, Island Rose, and Profriends (Property Company of Friends).

the half-day event targeted bloggers, social media specialists, entrepreneurs, digital marketers, etc. so they could learn and discuss how to turn blogging into a sustainable profession.

i was really excited to attend the event, it's my dream to become a professional blogger. it's the only item in my passion list i'm willing to do full time because it excites me a lot!

i came with my friend and former colleague tina and we came in late because we were so lost! coming all the way from the north, we didn't expect the EDSA traffic (srsly, who doesn't expect EDSA traffic?! our bad!) so we had to find a different route. with the help of waze (our new found love), and some guts too, we were able to navigate through the downtowns and reached makati after one and a half hour! when we were finally near, we were literally flailing over the sight of makati city hall like "OMG!!! there's the city hall! we're almost there!" (but nonetheless still late).

New blogger friends! Leo, Donna, Dianne, Me, Tina, Shane, and Vic :)

anyway... here are my takeaways from the event. i learned a lot, made friends, and realized that the summit didn't only cover blogging per se, but its entire impact in the business industry as well.

1. do not build contacts, build relationships

this is how i see a "contact": 

for a good while i only considered the people i worked with as contacts. people i interact with everyday in a professional manner should be segregated from my so called friends. i simply didn't want anyone from my workplace to meddle into my personal life, if that's what having a relationship with them meant.

and i was wrong. 

if i was to do blogging as a profession and kept everyone i worked with as a blogger in this category called "Contacts", sure that's kindof valid... after all, they're contacts naman talaga. but then they'll be forever boxed with my concept of a contact which is: just someone i know... with a number on my phone.

listening to the speakers i was reminded that in order to really succeed in what you're doing, you have to build relationships. and that meant getting to know the person deeper, not just as a blogger but as a person as well.

it's kindof challenging if you ask me cos i'm not really a friendly person, but since i'm running a personal blog... i want to be as personal as possible to everything i've accounted here so far, even the brands i promote, and the people i work with. it's really haaard. HAHA but i'm positive about it! >XD

here's to making relationships!

so... how are you? (err, that was an awkward start)

2. avoid bashing online

and this applies not just to people or celebrities, but also to bad service we get from some establishments. we read a lot of this online, from a worm in one's soup, to a cockroach poop in someone glass of iced tea, yadda, yadda, yadda. 

i must admit, i have a short temper and i get easily pissed with bad service. when i'm greeted with something displeasing from a store i patronize, i just want to take pictures all over in a manner that will tell everyone looking that "this is going online. beware." 

as blogger, i was made to realize that we have great power (yeahh, no matter how small-time you think your blog is!). and you know what's next, responsibility! haha! >XD how do you want your power to be used? do you want it to close down businesses? or to help them improve? instead of ranting online, why not take that feedback form and write down your concern? talk to the manager, and discuss things over. don't make a public spectacle of someone's mistake. businesses are run by humans too, so let's be kind and responsible as bloggers. :)

3. the beauty of social media strategies and target marketing

apparently, not just because you have a large facebook following means you'll get instantly considered to promote this and that brand. it's not that simple. if you were the social media strategist of that brand, you'll have to consider your target market, where they lurk most at online (it's not always facebook, i tell you!), and what they do. then build from there. if you were targeting kids, would you always want to lead them to a blog or a website with lots of text? or would you want to contain them to just a photo on your facebook page with all the information laid out in a creative manner?

i'm not a marketing person so the technicalities involved with brand promotion is something that amazes me a lot. apparently it's not as simple as having a fashion blogger promote your store, and waiting for the horde of customers to come in. haha

this business is crazy and exciting at the same time! 

---

that's it for me! it was one very informative day! imagine if we came in earlier! aaargh! it only fueled up my passion for blogging more! grabe, someday talaga i'm going to turn this into my 9-5! hahaha! i'm glad that i was able to meet new blogger friends too! :D i came in inspired and came out more motivated than ever!

so...let's start with my ever growing backlog. hahaha

What really happened at the Quezon City Food Festival?

foreword: this is coming from someone na napagod kalalakad, at naubusan ng pagkain. expect some anger haha 

Around 4pm. Maginhawa x Masaya 

honestly, i was one of those who were overly excited about this event. it was a definite must-go. a food fest at Maginhawa? are you kidding me? it's already a food haven over there and staging a festival in that popular street will be such a gastronomic adventure. 

i only learned about the fest a month or so before the actual event and by that time it has already made an incredible hype. their facebook page was full of teasers that effectively invited over 10,000 likes in less than 3 months! everyone was excited! who wouldn't be?

the vision their agenda gave me looked exciting at first glance, a concert during the day, fireworks display at night, a street full of food, and a 2km road closure. wait, what?

they had to close the entire stretch of Maginhawa from Masaya St. to V.Luna Extension to better regulate the fest. i was griping at this thought at first, specially when i was made to walk some 500m to jeckie's house. argh, i was in such a sour mood i even confronted the marshalls to express my disappointment. obviously, that didn't work cos i was just bitching out. and bitching out never worked. take note. 

by the way, i'm writing this super late after learning so much about DPOP's Professional Blogging Summit, so taking my learnings into account.... I SHALL (try) NOT (to) HATE. keyword: try

you know how hard it is to not rant when you're so pissed off by a certain experience right? so i waited for my furrowed brows to come down and tried to look at the event in a different light. naks. let's not be partial. haha

okay, let's break it down:

THE GOOD

• as a frustrated designer, i found the online teasers and ads very well designed. that included the posters, the infographics, the commemorative plates, and everything they shared digitally. hehe it's one of the reasons why i enjoyed promoting the event. i'm very partial with the design haha

• they hosted a lot of pre-event giveaways and promos! aaaand as much as i'd love to join, i was discouraged by the amount of people actively participating... so there goes my totally diminished chances of winning.

• they picked a very good place to hold a food fest. diba diba? haha

• i believe everyone was well informed about the event... the place, the road blocks, possible detours, who to contact as an exhibitor, tent prices, etc. it's all in their fb page.

• i must say, kudos to their PR/Advertising team. they did a really good job promoting the event. i think the idea of a Quezon City Food Festival was unique and exciting so it's no surprise it was such a success.

• i called it a success because from the organizers' view, well that's something to add to their booming portfolio of events handled/designed/executed/headed/etc. i just hope it adds the value they hoped to get from it. >:|

• from a purveyor's standpoint, amassing an incredible amount of foot traffic meant money, money, and money. i bet every single tent sold out, even those who have never sold out ever since. hahaha!

THE BAD

it was literally The Hunger Games when dusk came about. so many stalls have sold out. there were just SO MANY PEOPLE and SO LITTLE FOOD left to appease everyone's growling tummies (ours included).

i was already at the place by 4pm but decided to take a nap at jeckie's first. we came out around 8:30pm and we're already so freaking late. no more Big B, and everyone's kindof wrapping up their tents already. only chance you get to, uhm, enjoy the night is to buy booze, but then again, NOT ENOUGH SEATS. and can i just add that it's also TOO DARK FOR A FESTIVAL. i thought it was because a lot of stalls started packing up early, but then again, they're not supposed to be our major source of light...rrrright?

another thing, the promised WIFI WAS NOWHERE TO BE FELT. pinalampas ko na lang cos i know better than to rely on public wifi for big events like this, but it seems like even the Smart stalls didn't know they were offering free wifi coverage. when i inquired to ask for some 2 booths, the free internet they were promoting was the one which needs data connection (text FREE to 9999). and that's hardly the wifi the poster was boasting about.

anyhow, we gave up scouting for food when we reached this point:

the crowd has already gone to a toxic level i swear i wouldn't have survived that bottle neck without fits of rage and lots of elbowing. chos. i'm not that violent... and hungry. haha

THE UGLY

i'm not sure how to differentiate the bad from the ugly haha kelangan ko lang kumpletohin talaga haha.

in the end, we just came back to their house and ate hotdogs with the family. hihi i'd say it's still fun, after all, it's the company that's really going to save your day! we watched TV all night (but i slept halfway) and waited for the fireworks display. tsss, we could've sold those hotdogs out haha!

oh the fireworks! that's something good right? >XD haha back to the ugly things...

i feel like the organizers don't feel sorry enough for causing so much trouble to a freaking lot of people. a lot of angry posts were littered over their facebook wall, and while some of them got a personal reply from one of the organizers, it still didn't feel right. and i read some really negative posts were deleted too.

yes. i was kindof expecting an apology post or something addressed to everyone, but i guess if they think it was a success, it'll be up to their prides to issue something as humbling as that.  they posted a thank you photo though. nope. that's not an apology.

on a critical note, the success of the event cannot be concurred as a fact when a major fraction of their service endpoint isn't happy! and that's us! aaaargh. it's so frustrating when only the capitalists are being served! kainis!

TO THE ORGANIZERS

i hope you learn from this experience. rest assured that i still believe that you all want us to be happy and that half of the bad things i emphasized up there (read: bold red) are out of your hand. you surely cannot be blamed for that, right? how could you have known there'll be thousands upon thousands of hungrybods coming for food? and how could the business owners have prepared for that multitude? then again, you pulled the people in, you're kindof responsible.

hmmm, next time what about putting up a facebook event parallel to the page just to get a headcount of the people joining? >XD also you could setup something banchetto style that wouldn't take an entire street. i think that would be enough. but i guess you wanted to involve the entire food circuit so err, oh well. >XD

as for the bad stuff in blue, i blame you for that! :P

in all honesty i didn't the enjoy the event, but i can't hide the fact that i'm still positive about a 2nd QC Food Fest next year, simply because there's already so much points for improvement that there's no reason not to improve. hehe

whew! were you also there? how did you find it?

The Urban Food Collective Weekend Market

here's a weekend market that's perfect for those looking for artisinal, organic, philippine made, and natural products! catch The Urban Food Collective on all weekends of October to December 2014 at CommerCenter, Ayala Alabang and be part of TUFC's mission of gathering a community of patrons and purveyors who are passionate about quality food and other items!

by the way, ENTRANCE IS FREE!

to be exact, here are the different types of booths that will grace the weekend market, so if you're one of those who are thrilled with these kind of items, you know where to go!

• Gourmet
• Artisinal
• Organic
• Natural
• Eco-friendly
• Philippine-made
• Handmade
• Unique finds
• Bespoke items
• Arts & Crafts
• Handicrafts
• Pop-up shops

bring your family and friends with you and enjoy in this super cute workshop! if you are one (or if you know someone) who has totally bitten into the loomband craze, there will be a free Loomband Workshop at the market this weekend. check out the poster for more details and be sure to sign up! :)

lastly, Citi will be giving away a thousand worth of Crocs gift certificates to 15 lucky winners! check on the image on how to join or read further for more details:

3 steps to join!

1. Like TUFC at Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/tufcph)

2. Follow TUFC on Instagram (@tufcph)

3. Repost the picture about on your FB and IG accounts and tag TUFC. Make sure the posts are set to public for verification.

Winners will be announced on October 31 and prizes must be claimed at the TUFC Weekend Market!

that's it! for more details be sure to follow TUFC's social media accounts on facebook, twitter, and instagram (@tufcph). Their official website can also be found here.

Coming up! Professional Blogging Summit

hey goys! i've been out and about this weekend and i can't wait to rant and rave about yesterday! haha for now let me plug you in with another exciting event:

Professional Blogging Summit will happen this coming Saturday (oct 18) at A.Venue, Makati.
it's a half day event that aims to gather bloggers, social media specialists, entrepreneurs, etc. in an insightful afternoon filled with discussions about making blogging a sustainable profession.

i've read the agenda and i'm so excited to learn about all the topics outlined! i may not be a professional blogger yet, but it's already in my bucket list! it's the very reason i signed up for this, i want to learn as much as i can so i can further equip myself in what i consider a dream job for myself! >XD

head on over to their website for more details

JOINING IS SIMPLE... AND FREE!

Just visit their website and fill out the form found at the bottom of the page. By doing so you have to agree to the conditions mentioned there, otherwise, you can pay Php 500! but really, the conditions are simple and almost effortless if you're really interested in the summit. i can't wait to blog about it! >XD

See you there!

For more details, visit their website here!